From considering the ethics of bullfighting, to discussing AI in the classroom, students at the International 2025 Middle School Ethics Olympiad tackled many challenging case studies. 

After excelling at the regional event in November 2025, which included 440 teams globally, a Haileybury Rendall School team was one of 50 who advanced to the International Final in February. The team of Cameron, Year 8 and Year 9s Lydia, Helen and Amy competed via Zoom and achieved eighth place and an Honourable mention. 

The Ethics Olympiad prioritises collaborative critical thinking over traditional debating. Instead of set positions to defend, students develop and justify their own views while considering the perspectives of others. As Mimi Woolley, Deputy Head of Junior School – Teaching and Learning (Haileybury Rendall School), explained, “Students develop and defend their own viewpoints by thinking deeply, listening to others and responding thoughtfully.” 

The cases the students were asked to consider were varied and challenging. Cameron said that the one she found most interesting was ‘Relying on Civilian Intelligence in War.’ This was an “example of courage and selflessness for all of humanity to aspire to,” she said. Lydia also identified the Civilian Intelligence theme as “thought provoking.” 

For Amy, the experience of engaging with other high-achieving teams was particularly inspiring. “The Harvard Westlake team from Los Angeles displayed admirable critical thinking skills and a clear structure in their answers to our team’s statements. I learnt from them that a structured response is crucial, and that taking a risk by thinking outside of the box can make statements more compelling,” she explained. While Helen reflected that “Hearing the insightful views from other schools and judges encouraged me to consider multiple perspectives on each issue.” 

The team thanked their teachers and acknowledged the learnings they gained during the Olympiad experience. “I gained a great deal of insight on others’ experiences, opinions and viewpoints,” said Cameron.